CAMDEN COUNTY - A project to replace the Hurricane Deck Bridge on Route 5 in Camden County is moving forward. During their monthly meeting today, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded a construction contract to replace the aging bridge, which is located just south of Sunrise Beach.

"We are very excited to see construction begin on this project," said Nicole Hood, MoDOT District Design Engineer. "During the bidding process, we provided contractors with the flexibility to provide alternate construction ideas that would allow us to build this bridge as efficiently and cost effectively as possible. The awarded bid calls for the construction of a new bridge adjacent to the existing bridge."

American Bridge Company of Overland Park, Kansas was awarded the contract after submitting the low bid of $32,303,295.46. The new bridge will be wider to include two 12 foot driving lanes with seven foot shoulders on each side. The bridge will be constructed on the east side of the existing structure.

"We appreciate the input and support we've received from the community about this project," said Hood. "The community is very interested in this project and we look forward to breaking ground for construction this spring."

Motorists will continue to use the existing bridge until the new one opens in late 2013.

"There will be very minimal impacts to traffic during the bridge construction," said Hood. "We anticipate some short-term one lane closures on Rte. 5 as the new bridge is tied into the existing roadway just before the new bridge opens. We will keep the public informed about the status of work as it progresses."